West Virginia University wants Rich Rodriguez back as head coach

West Virginia University, situated in the United States, is reportedly pursuing Rich Rodriguez to fill its football head coach position. A recent report from ESPN college football insider Pete Thamel indicated that discussions are ongoing between Rodriguez and the university; however, a formal agreement has yet to be established. Currently, Rodriguez leads Jacksonville State, where he has posted back-to-back nine-win seasons over the past two years. Rodriguez previously coached the West Virginia Mountaineers from 2001 to 2007, achieving notable success with a 60-26 record, including four Big East Conference titles and multiple Bowl Championship Series victories. After leaving West Virginia, Rodriguez continued his coaching career at Michigan and Arizona, but hasn't coached in West Virginia since his departure. The university seeks Rodriguez's expertise to revitalize a faltering program that last boasted a 10-win season in 2016, struggling overall to exceed six wins in the past six seasons. Upon Rodriguez's potential hiring, it would be a homecoming of sorts, as he is a West Virginia alum and currently resides near his hometown of Grant Town. His knowledge and experience might inject the necessary enthusiasm and competitive edge that West Virginia football has been missing, especially following the recent firing of Neal Brown, who concluded his tenure with a record of 37-35. Should Rodriguez's hiring solidify, fans and players alike are optimistic about the team’s future under a coach who has previously brought success to the university.